Union Budget 2025: Industry Leaders’ Expectations and Key Recommendations

Union Budget 2025: Key Expectations and Recommendations from Industry Experts
As India approaches the Union Budget 2025, stakeholders from various industries—ranging from startups and real estate to education, renewable energy, and healthcare—are eager to see policies that stimulate innovation, streamline regulatory frameworks, and encourage inclusive economic progress. This budget presents an opportunity to drive forward advancements in key sectors, positioning India as a leader in technology, sustainability, and economic resilience. Below are insights from industry leaders outlining key policy recommendations that could shape the nation’s future.
Boosting the Startup Ecosystem
Ankur Srivastava, Founder, QI Media Network
For India to strengthen its ‘Make in India’ initiative on a global scale, the budget must bridge the gap between startup ambitions and practical support. Essential actions include improving policy awareness through targeted outreach, enhancing access to incubation centers via a centralized platform, and streamlining bureaucratic approvals with a single-window system. Additionally, expanding funding channels, fostering growth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and incentivizing export-oriented businesses will strengthen the startup ecosystem. Increased infrastructure investment and dynamic public-private collaborations will further propel innovation and entrepreneurship.
Real Estate Sector Growth and Sustainability
Mr. Sunil Pareek, Executive Director, Assetz Property Group
Real estate remains a crucial pillar of India’s economy. For the sector to reach its projected $1 trillion valuation by 2030, the budget must address long-term industry concerns, such as granting industry status, implementing a single-window approval system, and enabling developers to benefit from input tax credits. As sustainability gains prominence, incentives for eco-friendly construction and the integration of advanced technologies will be vital in driving growth and aligning with India’s Net Zero 2070 commitment.
Enhancing Education Infrastructure
Jasmeet Singh Chhabra, Co-Founder, Crimson Schools
With an estimated need for 4 billion square feet of additional educational infrastructure by 2034-35, Budget 2025 should prioritize strategic reforms. A transition to lease-based infrastructure models will ease capital investment burdens, allowing institutions to focus on teaching quality. Reducing the 18% GST on accreditation services will ease financial strain on schools, freeing up funds for digital and physical infrastructure improvements. Sustainability incentives, including tax relief for eco-friendly school projects, will drive long-term cost efficiency and environmental benefits.
Advancing Renewable Energy and Green Economy
Ms. Tanya Singhal, Founder, Mynzo Carbon & SolarArise
To accelerate India’s renewable energy adoption, the government must implement impactful incentives, such as:
- Tax rebates for climate-conscious consumers: A ₹25,000 annual deduction for individuals adopting certified energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy solutions.
- A ₹1,000 crore Renewable Workforce Training Program: Upskilling 100,000 coal industry workers to transition into the renewable energy sector.
- A ₹500 crore Storage Innovation Fund: Supporting research institutions and startups in energy storage technology.
- A five-year tax holiday for ACC battery manufacturers: Encouraging domestic battery production to support the electric vehicle (EV) industry.
- Grid infrastructure investment: Expanding energy storage at substations to enhance renewable energy stability.
Strengthening Financial Inclusion and Market Growth
Mr. Abhishek Dev, Co-founder & CEO, Epsilon Money
Budget 2025 provides an opportunity to promote inclusive financial growth by incentivizing women entrepreneurs, streamlining foreign investment through a one-window FDI approval system, and rationalizing capital gains tax structures. Expanding access to equity investments and foreign investor participation in domestic debt markets will further stimulate economic activity and financial market vibrancy.
Senior Care and Healthcare Reforms
Mr. Adarsh Narahari, Founder & MD, Primus Senior Living
Aging citizens deserve financial security and access to essential services. Reforming reverse mortgage policies will empower seniors by unlocking the value of their assets. Additionally, rationalizing GST on senior care services will ensure affordability and accessibility of healthcare and assisted living solutions.
Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, Founder, Chairman & CEO, SS Innovations
Homegrown medical technology innovation must be prioritized. Reducing import duties on essential medical device components and investing in local manufacturing will boost India’s med-tech sector. Additionally, government support for telesurgery and teleproctoring can revolutionize healthcare access in remote regions, providing quality medical services nationwide.
Technology and Digital Transformation
Salman Shaikh, Founder, The Webmark
India’s digital economy must be strengthened through investments in AI, blockchain, and digital infrastructure. The budget should incentivize research and development, simplify technology transfers, and expand digital accessibility. Initiatives promoting upskilling in technology and sustainability-focused industries will bolster India’s leadership in the global digital landscape.
Mohammed Fayaaz, Founder, Triumphs of Talent (ToT)
Human capital and technology-driven sectors will benefit from policies that promote upskilling, simplify compliance for businesses, and provide startup-friendly incentives. Investment in digital transformation will ensure that India’s workforce remains competitive in the global market.
Fiscal Responsibility and Export Competitiveness
Ramanath Manchala, Founder, Nou Expertise
Fiscal discipline will be essential in ensuring economic stability. While currency depreciation can provide short-term export benefits, the government must implement long-term strategies that promote export competitiveness and remove regulatory barriers in manufacturing and labor sectors.
Conclusion
Union Budget 2025 has the potential to drive transformative progress across various industries, reinforcing India’s vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. By prioritizing policy measures that foster innovation, simplify regulatory processes, and invest in sustainable infrastructure, the government can empower startups, encourage green energy initiatives, and drive inclusive economic growth.
A focus on digital transformation and green initiatives reflects India’s commitment to addressing climate change and technological advancements. Strengthening education and healthcare will ensure long-term human capital development, while financial and tax reforms will provide equitable opportunities for businesses and individuals.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors will be crucial in harnessing the benefits of these policy measures. By championing innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive development, India is well-positioned to thrive as a major global economic player while fostering sustainability and growth for future generations.
Check out more on Startup Funding News. Stay connected with us across all our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Google news and Join Our Community.